There are some HVAC companies that unless they design the system and it's newer than 5 years, they recommend a whole new system.

For outside lighting if possible invest in good quality solar exterior lighting to help control the electrical costs.

If you wanted the REP designation in the future, you can have your signficant other qualify and that would allow you to qualify (e.g. a stay at home wife) or you can take a consulting role resulting in the real estate being your full time gig.

As a lender who specializes in financing for real estate investors, I understand the unique needs of the BRRRR strategy and can offer tailored solutions to fit your goals.Here’s how I can support you:Flexible Financing Options: Various loan products designed specifically for investors like you, allowing for quick access to funds for purchases and renovations without the stringent requirements of traditional lenders.Experience with BRRRR: Having worked with many investors using the BRRRR method, I can guide you through the financing process, ensuring you understand the best strategies for maximizing your returns.Quick Turnaround: With a streamlined application process and quick approvals, you can move fast when you find the right property.Personalized Support: I’m committed to building strong relationships with my clients.

Plan is to wall it off and convert to a 4br/2ba,  update existing bath and kitchen, new floors,  interior and exterior  paint.

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

Big Money investors buying all kinds of property south of downtown and West of downtown in design district. 

Regs can run the gamut:  STR licenses are unlimited and available immediately with no restrictions, STRs can only be rented so many nights/ stays a year, STRs can only be in designated areas, the number of STRs are capped and there is a waitlist for a license.As others have mentioned, typically an unregulated STR will have more revenue than a LTR, but it will require more consistent work and effort.  

Exterior maintenance and yard work are usually handled by someone else.

They include: zoning requirements, building codes, impact fees, permitting requirements, design standards, public land requirements, and federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations and other labor requirements.